Coated closed-cell foam tube insulations and methods for producing the same

ABSTRACT

Provided is an insulation product, optionally in a tubular form, that includes a coated foam insulation layer, where the foam insulation layer has a closed-cell structure. The coating can comprise a thermoplastic elastomer that seamlessly covers and is bonded to an outer surface of the elastomeric foam layer in the absence of an adhesive bonding material to protect the foam insulation layer, e.g., during outdoor insulation applications. A pipe where the insulation product is installed is also provided, as is a method of installing the insulation product, and a method of producing the insulation product.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/014,333, filed Jun. 21, 2018, which claims priority U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 62/523,563, filed Jun. 22, 2017, and U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/527,724, filed Jun. 30, 2017, thedisclosures of each of which are herein incorporated by reference intheir entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The presently disclosed subject matter relates generally to closed-cellfoam tubes (e.g., closed-cell elastomeric foam tubes) for pipeinsulations used over conduits supplying fluids/gases, such as roundpipes.

BACKGROUND

Pipes are commonly used in residential or commercial applications forheating, air conditioning, or refrigeration purposes. The pipes are usedto convey fluids or gases/air to accomplish their purpose. Thetemperature of the fluid/gas can cycle from hot to cold. The pipes aregenerally covered on the exterior with a thermal insulation material toprevent heat gain or loss and to maintain the fluid or gas at a desiredtemperature. When the pipe is exposed to the elements (outdoors), thethermal insulation is typically covered with a jacket or coating toprotect it from abuse and the elements of nature.

For air conditioning applications, thermal insulation properties aredesirable, as is resistance to moisture penetration, which is a commonissue on low temperature applications where condensation can occur. Manyresidential and commercial facility air conditioning and refrigerationapplications include a portion, or all, of the conduit pipe exposed tooutdoor elements. The exterior surface of the thermal insulation used tocover such pipes is subject to degradation by UV, moisture, abuse or thelike and, as such, is advised by the insulation manufacturer or requiredper the local mechanical, energy, or building code to be covered by aprotective facing.

Closed-cell elastomeric insulation products have a structure ofindividual closed cells that are non-connecting. This structure givesthe product a low thermal conductivity and high moisture penetrationresistance, making it a good insulation for below ambient applicationswhere condensation is an issue.

However, in applications that cycle from cold to hot, such as airconditioning line sets, this closed-cell structure can create a problem.The closed-cell structure of the product can cause the cells/material toexpand or contract (up to 4% depending on the temperature differential)when exposed to hot or cold either internally from the pipe surface orexternally from the environment (ambient temperature) heating andcooling. This expansion and contraction creates a problem with any stiffjacket or coating applied to the insulation layer. The expansion forcescan cause the jacket to split or separate and the coating to crack.Field-installed jacketing solutions exist for 2-step installations, butrely on installer accuracy for proper performance over time and lendthemselves to not being used in cost competitive markets, whichnegatively impacts the facility owner. They also all have seams whichallows for moisture intrusion.

In view of the foregoing, there exists a need for a closed-cell foaminsulation product (e.g., tubing) for covering conduits (e.g., roundpipes) that cycle from hot to cold and that is also suitably coveredwith a facing for protection from the elements. In particular, there isa need for a closed-cell insulation product that has a seamless,approximately 100% surface area coverage of a protective coating layerthat can protect the closed-cell foam from moisture, ultraviolet (UV),and mechanical abuse, but that is flexible to match the flexibility ofthe foam and that conforms to the shape of the foam and can be appliedto the bends in the piping application. There is also a need for aninsulation product that is non-toxic to the environment, is notsubstantially affected by heat or environmental conditions, and/or thatis easy to install.

SUMMARY

The presently disclosed subject matter provides in some embodiments aninsulation product comprising a composite comprising: (a) a foaminsulation layer having a closed-cell structure, optionally wherein thefoam insulation layer is an elastomeric or polyethylene foam insulationlayer having a closed-cell structure; and (b) a coating layer bonded toan outer surface of the foam insulation layer, optionally wherein saidinsulation product is free of an adhesive to bond the coating layer tothe outer surface of the elastomer layer.

In some embodiments, the foam insulation layer comprises a materialselected from the group comprising ethylene propylene diene monomer(M-class) (EPDM), acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or combinations thereof.In some embodiments, the foam insulation layer has a density of betweenabout 3 and about 6 pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³).

In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises a thermoplasticelastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), and/or athermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), optionally wherein the TPE is based onEPDM polymer, further optionally wherein the EPDM is a UV-resistantEPDM. In some embodiments, the coating layer further comprises a flameretardant and/or one or more additional additives.

In some embodiments, the composite has a thickness of between about 0.5inches and about 1 inch and/or wherein the composite is provided in atubular form.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides acomposite tubing for use as an insulation product, wherein saidcomposite tubing comprises: (a) a foam insulation layer having aclosed-cell structure, optionally wherein the foam insulation layer isan elastomeric or polyethylene foam insulation layer having aclosed-cell structure; and (b) a coating layer bonded to and seamlesslycovering an outer surface of the foam insulation layer, optionallywherein the coating layer is bonded to the outer surface of the foaminsulation layer in the absence of an adhesive. In some embodiments, thefoam insulation layer comprises a material selected from the groupcomprising ethylene propylene diene monomer (M-class) (EPDM),acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), polyvinyl chloride (PVC),polyethylene, polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, the foam insulation layer has a density of betweenabout 3 and about 6 pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³).

In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises a thermoplasticelastomer (TPE), optionally wherein the TPE is EPDM, further optionallywherein the EPDM is a UV-resistant EPDM. In some embodiments, thecoating layer further comprises a flame retardant and/or one or moreadditional additives.

In some embodiments, the tubing has a wall thickness of between about0.5 inches and about 1 inch. In some embodiments, the tubing is astraight tubing having a length of between about three feet and aboutsix feet or a continuous coil tubing having a length of up to about1,000 feet and/or wherein the tubing has an inner diameter (ID) rangingfrom about 0.25 inches to about 6 inches, optionally wherein the ID isbetween about 0.5 inches and about 2.875 inches.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides around pipe installation, comprising: (a) a round pipe; and (b) acomposite tubing encompassing an outer surface of the pipe, wherein saidcomposite tubing comprises: (i) a foam insulation layer having aclosed-cell structure, optionally wherein the foam insulation layer isan elastomeric or polyethylene foam insulation layer having aclosed-cell structure, and (ii) a coating layer bonded to an outersurface of the foam insulation layer, optionally wherein said insulationproduct is free of an adhesive to bond the coating layer to the outersurface of the foam insulation layer. In some embodiments, the foaminsulation layer comprises a material selected from the group comprisingPVC, NBR, EPDM, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyisocyanurate orcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises athermoplastic elastomer, optionally wherein the coating layer comprisesEPDM, further optionally wherein the coating layer comprisesUV-resistant EPDM. In some embodiments, the coating layer furthercomprises a flame retardant and/or one or more additional additives.

In some embodiments, the composite tubing has a thickness of betweenabout 0.5 inches and about 1 inch. In some embodiments, the pipe is around-shaped metal pipe, further optionally wherein the metal pipe hasan outer diameter of about 4.125 inches or less. In some embodiments,the installation is at an outdoor location and/or where there is heatexposure, optionally wherein the installation is part of a heat pump ora solar hot water heating unit.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides amethod of installing an insulation product on a pipe, the methodcomprising: (a) providing a composite tubing comprising a foaminsulation layer having a closed-cell structure, optionally wherein thefoam insulation layer is an elastomeric or polyethylene foam insulationlayer having a closed-cell structure, and a coating layer bonded to anouter surface of the foam insulation layer; and (b) sliding the tubingover a length of the pipe, optionally wherein the sliding comprisespushing the tubing over the length of pipe. In some embodiments, themethod further comprises coating the transverse ends of the tubing witha contact adhesive, thereby sealing the ends.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter comprises amethod for installing an insulation product on a pipe, the methodcomprising: (a) providing a composite tubing comprising a foaminsulation layer having a closed-cell structure, optionally wherein thefoam insulation layer is an elastomeric or polyethylene foam insulationlayer having a closed-cell structure, and a coating layer bonded to anouter surface of the foam insulation layer; (b) slitting the tubinglongitudinally to provide two slit longitudinal ends traversing thelength of the tubing; (c) wrapping the tubing around a section of pipeto encompass the outer diameter of the pipe section and so that the twoslit ends are directly adjacent to one another, thereby forming an openseam; (d) coating each of the two slit longitudinal ends of the tubingwith an adhesive coating and contacting the coated slit longitudinalends to each other to form a sealed seam; and (e) coating the twotransverse ends of the tubing with an adhesive coating to seal thetransverse ends and/or to adhere one or both of the transverse ends toanother length of insulation tubing, optionally another length of thecomposite tubing.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides amethod of making an insulation product, the method comprising: (a)providing a closed-cell foam tube, optionally a closed-cell elastomericor polyethylene foam tube; and (b) extruding a polymeric coating in anencapsulating manner over the closed-cell foam tube to seamlessly coverthe outer surface of the foam tube, wherein the extruding is performedat a temperature to provide a bond between the polymeric coating and theclosed-cell foam surface and wherein the polymeric coating comprises athermoplastic elastomer, optionally wherein the bond is an adhesive-freebond. In some embodiments, the closed-cell foam tube comprises amaterial selected from the group comprising PVC, NBR, EPDM,polyethylene, polystyrene, polyisocyanurate or combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, the polymeric coating comprises a thermoplasticelastomer, optionally wherein the thermoplastic elastomer comprises EPDMor a UV-resistant EPDM.

In some embodiments, the closed-cell foam tube is prepared via extrusionand vulcanization. In some embodiments, the method comprises an in-lineprocess with the manufacturing of the elastomeric tubing.

Accordingly, is an object of the presently disclosed subject matter toprovide coated insulation products (e.g., tubing) or pipes where theinsulation product is installed, and methods of installing, producing,and using the insulation products.

An object of the presently disclosed subject matter having been statedhereinabove, and which is achieved in whole or in part by the presentlydisclosed subject matter, other objects will become evident as thedescription proceeds when taken in connection with the accompanyingdrawings as best described herein below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a composite insulationtubing in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter;

FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a composite insulationtubing in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter;

FIG. 3 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a pipe installation inaccordance with the presently disclosed subject matter;

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a pipe installation inaccordance with the presently disclosed subject matter;

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a pipe installation in accordancewith the presently disclosed subject matter; and

FIG. 6 is a schematic flow diagram of a production andinstallation/implementation method in accordance with the presentlydisclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The presently disclosed subject matter relates generally to aninsulation product or composite product for application to pipes,optionally round pipes, which convey fluids or gases that are exposed toboth hot and cold temperatures and that are jacketed, to protect themfrom the elements and mechanical abuse. The insulation product canoptionally be relatively inexpensive, easy to apply, can provide thedesired thermal and moisture resistance, and can be used in extremeconditions.

Thus, insulation products, methods of installing the same, and methodsof producing the same are provided in accordance with the presentlydisclosed subject matter. In some embodiments, the product comprises acomposite comprising a foam insulation layer (e.g., an elastomeric orpolyethylene foam insulation layer) and a coating layer (e.g., acommercially available coating layer) bonded (e.g., via commerciallyavailable extrusion equipment) to an outer surface of the foaminsulation layer. In some embodiments, the composite insulation productis free of an adhesive to bond the coating layer to the outer surface ofthe foam insulation layer. In some embodiments, the foam insulationlayer has a closed-cell structure (e.g., closed-cell foam). In someembodiments, the coating layer is a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or TPEblend. In some embodiments, the composite insulation product is in theform of a tubing.

Many residential and commercial facility air conditioning applicationsinclude a portion or all of the conduit pipe exposed to outdoorelements. The exterior surface of the thermal insulation used to coversuch pipes is subject to degradation by UV, moisture, abuse or the likeand, as such, is advised by the insulation manufacturer or required perthe local mechanical, energy or building code to be covered by aprotective facing/jacket.

Closed-cell insulation products have a structure of individual closedcells that are non-connecting. This structure gives the product a lowthermal conductivity and high moisture penetration resistance, making itan insulation typically chosen for below ambient applications wherecondensation is an issue. Closed-cell elastomeric foam tubes can offerflexibility for ease of use and installation on applications with manypipe bends, cross-linked cell structure properties for dimensionalstability in demanding temperature conditions, and limitedcombustibility properties to make the tubes compliant to applicablebuilding standards, making closed-cell foams suitable for use over otherthermal insulation materials. Closed-cell elastomeric foam insulationproducts are based on a variety of polymers, with PVC/NBR, NBR and EPDMthe most commonly used. However, in applications that cycle from cold tohot, such as air conditioning line sets, this closed-cell structure cancreate a problem. The closed-cell structure of the product can cause thecells/material to expand or contract (up to 4% depending on thetemperature differential) when exposed to hot or cold either internallyfrom the pipe surface or externally from the environment (ambienttemperature) heating and cooling. This expansion and contraction createsa problem with any stiff jacket or coating applied to the insulationlayer. The expansion forces can cause the jacket to split or separateand the coating to crack. Field-installed jacketing solutions exist for2-step installations, but rely on installer accuracy for properperformance over time and lend themselves to not being used in costcompetitive markets, which negatively impacts the facility owner. Theyalso all have seams which allows for moisture intrusion and many jacketsare not flexible or may separate when exposed to heat.

In view of the foregoing, there exists a need for a closed-cell foaminsulation tube for covering pipes that cycle from hot to cold and iscovered with a seamless, 100% coverage, flexible, single-stepinstallation, code compliant facing for protection from the elements.The insulation should be relatively inexpensive, easy to apply, providethe desired thermal and moisture resistance, and be able to withstandextreme conditions.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill inthe art to which the presently disclosed subject matter belongs.Although any methods, devices, and materials similar or equivalent tothose described herein can be used in the practice or testing of thepresently disclosed subject matter, representative methods, devices, andmaterials are described herein.

While the following terms are believed to be well understood by one ofordinary skill in the art, the following definitions are set forth tofacilitate explanation of the presently disclosed subject matter.

Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms “a”, “an”, and“the” refer to “one or more” when used in this application, includingthe claims.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities,conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to beunderstood as being modified in all instances by the term “about”.Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, numerical parameters setforth in this specification and attached claims are approximations thatcan vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained bythe presently disclosed subject matter.

As used herein, the term “about,” when referring to a value or to anamount of a mass, weight, temperature, time, volume, concentration,percentage, etc., is meant to encompass variations of in someembodiments±20%, in some embodiments±10%, in some embodiments±5%, insome embodiments±1%, in some embodiments±0.5%, and in someembodiments±0.1% from the specified amount, as such variations areappropriate to perform the disclosed methods or employ the disclosedcompositions.

Numerical ranges recited herein by endpoints include all numbers andfractions subsumed within that range (e.g. 1 to 5 includes, but is notlimited to, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.90, 4, and 5).

The term “comprising”, which is synonymous with “including” “containing”or “characterized by” is inclusive or open-ended and does not excludeadditional, unrecited elements or method steps. “Comprising” is a termof art used in claim language which means that the named elements areessential, but other elements can be added and still form a constructwithin the scope of the claim.

As used herein, the phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, step,or ingredient not specified in the claim. When the phrase “consists of”appears in a clause of the body of a claim, rather than immediatelyfollowing the preamble, it limits only the element set forth in thatclause; other elements are not excluded from the claim as a whole.

As used herein, the phrase “consisting essentially of” limits the scopeof a claim to the specified materials or steps, plus those that do notmaterially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimedsubject matter.

With respect to the terms “comprising”, “consisting of”, and “consistingessentially of”, where one of these three terms is used herein, thepresently disclosed and claimed subject matter can include the use ofeither of the other two terms.

As used herein, the term “and/or” when used in the context of a listingof entities, refers to the entities being present singly or incombination. Thus, for example, the phrase “A, B, C, and/or D” includesA, B, C, and D individually, but also includes any and all combinationsand subcombinations of A, B, C, and D.

As used herein, a “polymer” refers to a molecule which comprises themultiple repetition of structural units derived from molecules of lowrelative molecular mass, e.g., polymerizable monomers and/or oligomers.

An “oligomer” refers to a molecule of intermediate relative molecularmass, the structure of which comprises a small plurality (e.g., 2-100,2-50, 2-20, or 2-10) of units derived from molecules of lower relativemolecular mass.

A “copolymer” refers to a polymer derived from more than one species ofpolymerizable monomer. Copolymers include block copolymers (containingchains of oligomers or polymers where each chain is an oligomeric orpolymeric chain based on a different monomeric unit), random copolymers,where monomeric units from different monomers are randomly ordered inthe copolymer, and statistical copolymers, where there is a statisticaldistribution of monomeric units from the different monomers in thecopolymer chain.

A “polymer blend” refers to a mixture to two different types of alreadyformed polymer or copolymer.

I. Exemplary Embodiments

The presently disclosed subject matter provides, in one aspect, aninsulation product comprising a composite material comprising: (a) aclosed-cell foam insulation layer; and (b) a coating layer bonded to anouter surface of the foam insulation layer. In some embodiments, theinsulation product is free of an adhesive to bond the coating layer tothe outer surface of the foam insulation layer. The foam insulationlayer can comprise a fibrous or cellular type material, both of whichoffer thermal insulation properties.

Cellular insulation, particularly closed-cell insulation, offersresistance to moisture penetration, which is a common issue on lowtemperature applications where condensation can occur. In someembodiments, the foam layer comprises a closed-cell structure.Closed-cell insulation products can comprise a variety of polymers,including both elastomeric and polyethylene polymers, with polyvinylchloride (PVC), acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), PVC/NBR, ethylenepropylene diene monomer (M-class) (EPDM), polyethylene, polystyrene,polyisocyanurate, the most commonly used. Various closed-cellelastomeric insulation materials are known in the art. Exemplary closedcell insulation products include, but are not limited to, the APArmaflex® family of elastomeric foams and the Imcoa®, Tubolit®, andTundra® family of polyolefin foams available from Armacell LLC (ChapelHill, N.C., United States of America), as well as the Aerocel™ family ofelastomeric foams available from Aeroflex USA (Sweetwater, Tenn., UnitedStates of America). Thus, in some embodiments, the foam insulation layeris an elastomeric or polyethylene foam insulation layer having aclosed-cell structure.

In some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, PVC/NBR,NBR and EPDM can be employed in the foam insulation layer. In someembodiments, the foam insulation layer has a density of between about 3and about 6 pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³), e.g., about 3.0, 3.2, 3.4,3.6, 3.8, 4.0, 4.2, 4.4, 4.6, 4.8, 5.0, 5.2, 5.4, 5.6, 5.8, or about 6.0lb/ft³.

In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises a thermoplasticelastomer (TPE) (e.g., a commercially available TPE). Any suitable TPEor mixture of TPEs can be used that provides the foam insulation layerwith protection from abuse/outdoor elements. In some embodiments, theTPE is a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) or a thermoplastic polyurethane(TPU). In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises a commerciallyavailable TPE, a commercially available TPV, and/or a commerciallyavailable TPU. For example, commercially available TPEs include, but arenot limited to, the Hytrel® family of TPEs available from Dupont(Wilmington, Del., United States of America). Commercially availableTPUs include, but are not limited to, the Irogran® and Avalon® polymersavailable from Huntsman (The Woodlands, Tex., United States of America).Commercially available TPVs include the SANTOPRENE™ elastomers availablefrom Exxon Mobil Corporation (Irving, Tex., United States of America).

In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises EPDM. In someembodiments, the coating layer is based on EPDM. In some embodiments,the coating layer comprises a UV-resistant EPDM. In some embodiments,the coating layer further comprises one or more of PVC, NBR, styrenebutadiene rubber (SBR) or blends of the aforementioned polymers. Inaddition to the TPE, the coating layer can comprise one or more flameretardants, and/or one or more additional additives known in the polymerand/or elastomer fields, e.g., a UV-protection agent; a colorant,pigment, or dye; an organic filler; an inorganic filler; a wax; aplasticizer (e.g., a non-phthalate plasticizer); a tackifier; ananti-oxidant; a stabilizer (e.g., a thermal or UV stabilizer); abiocide; an anti-static agent; a processing aid, such as a lubricant ora mold-release agent; and combinations thereof. The type and amount ofan additive or additives can be chosen based on the properties desiredfor the final end use of the insulation product. The additive oradditives can be present in an amount that is less than about 50% byvolume or by weight of the coating layer composition as a whole. In someembodiments, the coating layer comprises EPDM (e.g., a UV-resistantEPDM), PVC, NBR, SBR, one or more flame retardants, and one or morenon-phthalate plasticizer. In some embodiments, the coating layerincreases the insulation capacity and strengthens the physicalmechanical properties of the composite. The coating layer can be anysuitable color. Typically, the coating layer is black. However, in someembodiments, the coating layer is a color other than black, such as, butnot limited to white, red, or blue.

In some embodiments, the composite (i.e., the foam insulation layer andthe coating layer) or the foam insulation layer has a thickness ofbetween about ¼″ and about 2″. In some embodiments, the composite or thefoam insulation layer has a thickness of between about “and about 1”(e.g., about 0.50, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65, 0.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, 0.90, 0.95,or about 1.00).

In some embodiments, the composite is provided in a tubular form,wherein the coating layer is provided on the surface that makes up theouter diameter of the tube. The tube can be provided in any suitablelength, e.g., about 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12 feet (′). The tubing can bea straight tubing or a continuous coil tubing. In some embodiments, thestraight tubing can have a length between about 3 and about 6 feet. Insome embodiments, the continuous coil tubing can have a length of up toabout 1,000 feel (e.g., about 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 400, 500,600, 700, 800, 900, or about 1,000 feet). In some embodiments, the tubehas an inner diameter of between about 0.25 inches to about 6 inches, orbetween about 0.375 inches to about 4.25 inches, or between about 0.5″and about 3″ (e.g., about ½″, ⅝″, ¾ ″, ⅞″, 1″, 1⅛″, 1⅜″, 1½ ″, 1⅝″, 1⅞′,2″, 2⅛″, 2⅜″, 2½″, or about 2⅞″).

In some embodiments, the present disclosed subject matter provides acontinuously produced closed-cell foam insulation tube (e.g., aclosed-cell elastomeric or polyethylene foam insulation tube) for pipeinsulations providing thermal and moisture resistance and that is coatedseamlessly over approximately 100% (e.g., about 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95,96, 97, 98, 98.5, 99, 99.5, 99.6, 99.7, 99.8, 99.9, or 100%) of itssurface area via an adhesive-free extrusion process with a flexiblethermoplastic elastomer (TPE) blend to provide protection againstoutdoor elements. In some embodiments, the closed-cell foam insulationtube is a cross-linked expanded foam material comprising NBR, NBR/PVC orEPDM with a finished product density of approximately 3-6 lb/ft³. Thetube can be extruded and vulcanized using common foam extrusion andvulcanization equipment. Then, in some embodiments, in an in-lineprocess, the extruded foam tube is covered with a flexible TPE coating.In some embodiments, the coating is a TPE coating that includes a blendof UV-resistant EPDM resin, flame retardants and polymer additives. Insome embodiments, the TPE coating comprises EPDM (e.g., a UV-resistantEPDM), PVC, NBR, SBR, one or more flame retardants, and one or morenon-phthalate plasticizer. The coating can be any suitable color, e.g.,black, white, red or blue. In some embodiments, the tubing can beobtained by extruding (e.g., using commercially available extrusionequipment) the polymeric coating in a fully-encapsulating manner overthe closed-cell foam tube. Suitable extrusion equipment is available,for example, from Davis Standard LLC (Pawcatuck, Conn., United States ofAmerica), KraussMaffei Berstorff (Krauss-Maffei Corp., Florence, Ky.,United States of America), and TROESTER GmbH & Co., KG (Hannover,Germany). The polymeric coating can be extruded in a fully-encapsulatingmanner over the closed-cellfoam tube to ensure approximately 100%protective surface area coverage. The extruding can be performed at atemperature that provides an adhesive-free bond of the coating layer tothe closed-cell foam surface (e.g., at the melt temperature of the resinfor the TPE coating).

The composite coated foam tube according to the presently disclosedsubject matter can have superior properties when compared to a standarduncoated elastomeric foam product, or to a coated non-cross-linked foamproduct not made of elastomeric resins, or to a foam product that isjacketed in the field, and is targeted to be used for pipe/ductinsulation. For example, the composite product is flexible (e.g., canconform to bends), has low modulus (providing an ability to push backthe product for easy installation of fittings), can withstand demandinginternal and external temperature cycles (e.g., temperatures rangingfrom −70° F. to +220° F. or from −70° F. to +300° F.), and is simple andeasy to install, since it eliminates the need for a secondary fieldjacketing process. Furthermore, based on the selection of coating resinblend and additives for the coating layer, the product can be used in arange of demanding indoor and/or outdoor applications. For example, theproduct has resistance to weather conditions and to tearing andabrasion/mechanical abuse, including impact from incidental impact fromlawn equipment, such as, but not limited to weed wackers. The product isalso safe to handle (non-dusting and non-abrasive) and lightweight.

In some embodiments, the product has a thermal conductivity of betweenabout 0.24 and about 0.27 BTU-inch/hr-ft²-° F. at ambient temperature(e.g., about 75° F.), a water vapor permeability of about 0.2 perm orless (e.g., about 0.1 perm or less than about 0.01 perm), and 7% or lesslinear shrinkage. A problem that the presently disclosed subject matterseeks to solve is that the foam insulation layer can expand upon beingexposed to heat. The coating layer accommodates this expansion so thatthe insulation product maintains its integrity despite exposure to heat.That is, ruptures of the coating layer encompassing the foam insulationlayer are resisted or avoided. Installations for the product can includelocations where there is heat exposure, such as an external pipe thatmight be exposed to sunlight or insulation covering a pipe from whichheat might be radiated.

Referring now to the Figures, wherein like reference numbers refer tolike parts throughout, a composite insulation tubing in accordance withthe presently disclosed subject matter is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ascomposite insulation tubing 100. Referring in particular to FIGS. 1 and2 , composite insulation tubing 100 includes a closed-cell foaminsulation layer 120 (e.g., a closed-cell elastomeric foam insulationlayer) seamlessly coated on its outside surface with elastomer coatinglayer 130. As shown in FIG. 2 , composite insulation tubing 100 has wallthickness 106 (including the thickness of foam insulation layer 120 andcoating layer 130), outer diameter (OD) 102, and inner diameter (ID)104.

A pipe installation in accordance with the presently disclosed subjectmatter is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 as pipe installation 300 includes pipe110, in this case a round pipe. Pipe 110 is covered with closed-cellfoam insulation layer 120 for its entire circumference and across thelength of pipe 110. Continuing with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 ,elastomer coating layer 130 encompasses or encapsulates the entirecircumference of closed-cell foam insulation layer 120. In someembodiments, the two layers 120 and 130 are bonded without the use of anadhesive, e.g., by forming layer 130 via extrusion from a meltcomprising an elastomer resin.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matterprovides a pipe installation (e.g., a round pipe installation)comprising: a pipe (e.g., a round pipe); a composite tubing encompassingan outer surface of the pipe, wherein said composite tubing comprises:(i) a foam insulation layer (e.g., having a closed-cell structure),optionally an elastomeric or polyethylene closed-cell foam insulationlayer, and (ii) a coating layer bonded to an outer surface of the foaminsulation layer. In some embodiments, the insulation product is free ofan adhesive to bond the coating layer to the outer surface of the foaminsulation layer. In some embodiments, the foam insulation layercomprises a material selected from the group including, but not limitedto, PVC, NBR, EPDM, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyisocyanurate andcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, the foam insulation layercomprises EPDM, NBR, or NBR/PVC. In some embodiments, the coating layercomprises a TPE, a TPV, and/or a TPU (e.g., a commercially availableTPE, TPV and/or TPU). In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises aTPE. In some embodiments, the TPE is EPDM or is based on EPDM polymer.In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises UV-resistant EPDM. Insome embodiments, the coating layer further comprises a flame retardantand/or one or more additional additives. In some embodiments, thecoating layer comprises EPDM (e.g., a UV-resistant EPDM), PVC, NBR, SBR,one or more flame retardants, and one or more non-phthalate plasticizer.The coating layer can be any color. In some embodiments, the coatinglayer is black. In some embodiments, the coating layer is a color otherthan black, such as white, red, or blue.

In some embodiments, the composite or the foam insulation layer byitself has a thickness of between about %″ and about 2″. In someembodiments, the composite or the foam insulation layer has a thicknessof between about “and about 1” (e.g., about 0.50, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65,0.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, 0.90, 0.95, or about 1.00).

The pipe can be any pipe. In some embodiments, the pipe can be round inshape (i.e., have a circular cross-section) and can be formed of anysuitable material, such as, a metal, e.g., copper, steel or iron) or asynthetic polymer (e.g., polyvinylchloride (PVC)). By way of example,and not limitation, a pipe can be up to 60 inches (″) in diameter, butare typically less (e.g., below about 40″, or below about 20″ indiameter. In some embodiments, the pipe is a round pipe with an OD of upto 4⅛″ (i.e., 4.125″ or less).

In some embodiments, the pipe installation is at an outdoor location. Insome embodiments, the pipe installation is in a location where there isheat/sun exposure. In some embodiments, the installation is part of anair conditioning or heating unit or system. In some embodiments, theinstallation is part of is part of a heat pump or a solar hot waterheating unit.

II. Production

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides amethod of making an insulation product, the method comprising: providinga closed-cell foam tube (e.g., a closed-cell elastomeric or polyethylenefoam tube); and extruding (e.g., using commercially available extrusionequipment) a polymeric coating in an encapsulating manner over theclosed-cell foam tube to cover the outer surface of the foam tube. Insome embodiments, the polymeric material is extruded in afully-encapsulating manner over the closed-cell foam tube to fully coverthe outer surface of the foam tube. In some embodiments, the extrudingis performed at a temperature to ensure an adhesive-free bond betweenthe polymeric coating and the foam surface and the polymeric coatingcomprises a thermoplastic elastomer. In some embodiments, theclosed-cell foam tube comprises a material selected from the groupcomprising, but not limited to, PVC, NBR, EPDM, polyethylene,polystyrene, polyisocyanurate and combinations thereof. In someembodiments, the foam tube comprises EPDM, NBR, or NBR/PVC. In someembodiments, the polymeric coating comprises a TPE, a TPV and/or a TPU(e.g., a commercially available TPE, TPV and/or TPU). In someembodiments, the polymeric coating comprises a TPE. In some embodiments,the TPE comprises EPDM or a UV-resistant EPDM. In some embodiments, thepolymeric coating further comprises a flame retardant and/or one or moreadditional additives. In some embodiments, the coating layer comprisesEPDM (e.g., a UV-resistant EPDM), PVC, NBR, SBR, one or more flameretardants, and one or more non-phthalate plasticizer.

In some embodiments, the closed-cell foam tube is prepared via extrusionand vulcanization. In some embodiments, the foam tube has a wallthickness of between about 0.5″ and about 1″. In some embodiments, themethod of producing the insulation product comprises an in-line process.Thus, in some embodiments, the foam tube and the coating layer can beextruded using the same production line. The coating process can also bereferred to as an extrusion coating or an over jacket extrusion, whereinthe foam tube being coated is already in solid form when the coatinglayer is extruded. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the foam and thecoating layer can be co-extruded.

After the coated tubing is produced, it can be cut as desired into anysuitable length prior to being installed on a pipe or prior to beingpackaged for sale and/or distribution.

III. Installation and Use

FIG. 5 shows pipe installation 300 being formed. More particularly, asshown in FIG. 5 , a composite tubing comprising closed-cell foaminsulation layer 120 and elastomer coating layer 130 is slid over theouter surface of pipe 110. In some embodiments, the tubing is pushedover the pipe (e.g., as opposed to being pulled over the pipe). Thecomposite tubing can be installed over a length of pipe in the field orat a factory. In some embodiments, such as when it is not possible toslide the composite insulation tubing over the pipe (e.g., forretrofitting the insulation on previously installed pipe), the compositeinsulation tubing can be slit longitudinally and wrapped around thepiping. Any seams, butt joints (i.e., where transverse ends from twolengths of composite tubing are adjacent to one another), terminationpoints, and/or open ends of the composite insulation tubing can besealed, for example, with a contact adhesive. When two surfaces ofcomposite insulation tubing are being sealed together, the contactadhesive can be applied to both surfaces to be joined.

Thus, in some embodiments, the production and installation in the fieldof the presently disclosed insulation product can be accomplishedaccording to the following non-limiting exemplary steps of method 600shown in FIG. 6 . Method 600 can comprise step 610 which comprisesextruding and vulcanizing a closed-cell foam tube (e.g., comprising atube of EPDM, NBR, or NBR/PVC having a wall thickness of between about⅜″ and about 1″). In step 620, a coating is extruded over the foam tube,the coating bonding to the foam tube due to the heat from the meltedcoating resin. In step 630, a length of coated foam tube is slid over alength of pipe. Then in step 640, any open ends of any butt joints ortermination points, or other open ends of the coated foam tube arecoated with an adhesive to protect the foam tube from moisturepenetration. Butt joints can be pressed together before the adhesivecures to form a closed seal. The adhesive can be any suitable adhesive,such as but not limited to a solvent-based, hot melt or similaradhesive.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the presently disclosed insulationproduct can be retro-fitted on all or a portion of pipe already in use,wherein, for example, no insulation was previously used or where priorinsulation is in need of replacing. In some cases, it will not bedesirable or practical to disconnect or separate the pipes such thatthere is an open transverse end of the pipe over which to slide thepresently disclosed composite tubing. Thus, in some embodiments, it canbe easier to provide the composite in the form of a sheet which can becut to a desired length and/or width, wrapped around the outercircumference of a length of pipe, and any open longitudinal ends (i.e.,ends parallel to the pipe axis) can be sealed. In some embodiments, thecomposite tubing is slit or cut longitudinally to form two openlongitudinal ends, applied around the pipe so that the two longitudinalends meet, and the longitudinal ends can be coated with an adhesive andcontacted to one another to form a sealed seam.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matterprovides a method of installing an insulation product on a pipe, themethod comprising: providing a composite tubing comprising (i) a foaminsulation layer having a closed-cell structure, and (ii) a coatinglayer bonded to an outer surface of the foam insulation layer; andsliding the tubing over a length of the pipe, optionally wherein thesliding comprises pushing the tubing over the length of pipe. In someembodiments, the insulation product is free of an adhesive to bond thecoating layer to the outer surface of the foam layer

In some embodiments, the foam insulation layer comprises a materialselected from the group including, but not limited to, PVC, NBR, EPDM,polyethylene, polystyrene, polyisocyanurate and combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, the foam insulation layer comprises EPDM, NBR, orNBR/PVC. In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises a TPE, TPVand/or TPU (e.g., a commercially available TPE, TPV, and/or TPU). Insome embodiments, the coating layer comprises a TPE. In someembodiments, the TPE is EPDM or is based on EPDM polymer. In someembodiments, the coating layer comprises UV-resistant EPDM. In someembodiments, the coating layer further comprises a flame retardantand/or one or more additional additives. In some embodiments, thecoating layer comprises EPDM (e.g., a UV-resistant EPDM), PVC, NBR, SBR,one or more flame retardants, and one or more non-phthalate plasticizer.In some embodiments, the pipe is a round metal pipe having an OD of upto about 4⅛″.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises coating the transverseends of the tubing (i.e., the ends perpendicular to the axis of thepipe) with a contact adhesive, thereby sealing the ends. In someembodiments, the method comprises coating a transverse end of the tubingwith a contact adhesive and contacting the coated end with a transverseend of another length of insulation tubing encompassing an adjacentlength of pipe or duct, e.g., an adhesive coated transverse end ofanother length of insulation tubing, to make a sealed butt seam.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides amethod for installing an insulation product on a pipe, the methodcomprising: providing a composite tubing comprising (i) a foaminsulation layer having a closed-cell structure (optionally aclosed-cell elastomeric or polyethylene foam layer), and (ii) a coatinglayer bonded to an outer surface of the foam insulation layer; slittingthe tubing longitudinally to provide two slit longitudinal endstraversing the length of the tubing; applying the tubing around asection of pipe to encompass (in some embodiments, fully encompass) theouter diameter of the pipe section and so that the two slit ends aredirectly adjacent to one another, thereby forming an open seam; coatingeach of the two slit longitudinal ends of the tubing with an adhesivecoating and contacting the coated slit longitudinal ends to each otherto form a sealed seam; and coating the two transverse ends of the tubingwith an adhesive coating to seal the transverse ends and/or to adhereone or both of the transverse ends to another length of insulationtubing, optionally another length of the composite tubing.

In some embodiments, the insulation product is free of an adhesive tobond the coating layer to the outer surface of the foam insulationlayer. In some embodiments, the foam insulation layer comprises amaterial selected from the group including, but not limited to, PVC,NBR, EPDM, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyisocyanurate and combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, the elastomer layer comprises EPDM, NBR,or NBR/PVC. In some embodiments, the coating layer comprises a TPE, TPVand/or TPU (e.g., a commercially available TPE, TPV, and/or TPU. In someembodiments, the coating layer comprises a TPE. In some embodiments, theTPE is EPDM or is based on EPDM polymer. In some embodiments, thecoating layer comprises UV-resistant EPDM. In some embodiments, thecoating layer further comprises a flame retardant and/or one or moreadditional additives. In some embodiments, the coating layer comprisesEPDM (e.g., a UV-resistant EPDM), PVC, NBR, SBR, one or more flameretardants, and one or more non-phthalate plasticizer. In someembodiments, the pipe is a metal pipe having an OD of up to about 4⅛″.

It will be understood that various details of the presently disclosedsubject matter may be changed without departing from the scope of thepresently disclosed subject matter. Furthermore, the foregoingdescription is for the purpose of illustration only, and not for thepurpose of limitation.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of installing an insulation product on apipe, the method comprising: (a) providing a composite tubing consistingof two layers: (i) a foam insulation layer having a closed-cellstructure, wherein the foam insulation layer comprises a combination ofpolyvinylchloride and acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (PVC/NBR) and isconfigured to fit directly over the surface of a round pipe; and (ii) acoating layer bonded to an outer surface of the foam insulation in theabsence of an adhesive and seamlessly covering said outer surface of thefoam insulation layer, wherein the coating layer comprises EPDM, PVC,NBR, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), one or more flame retardants, andone or more non-phthalate plasticizer, and wherein the composite tubingcan withstand internal and external temperature cycles with temperaturesranging from −70° F. to 300° F.; and (b) sliding the tubing over alength of the pipe.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising coatingthe transverse ends of the tubing with a contact adhesive, therebysealing the ends.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the slidingcomprises pushing the tubing over the length of pipe.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the pipe is a pipe of a heating, air conditioning, orrefrigeration unit or system.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the pipeis exposed to outdoor elements.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein theoutdoor elements include sun exposure.
 7. The method of claim 1, whereinthe pipe is part of a heat pump or solar hot water heating unit.